MHL resident leader joins Board of Directors

Kurt Rogers, Mercy Housing Lakefront resident and new Board member

In January, Mercy Housing Lakefront welcomed Kurt Rogers to the Board of Directors. Rogers is a passionate proponent for affordable housing and has been a resident at Mercy Housing Lakefront’s Carlton Apartments since 1997.

Rogers understands the importance of having resident members on the Board of Directors. Not only can he be a trusted representative for his fellow residents, but he can help fellow Board members and donors connect with the mission of Mercy Housing in a richer way.

“The name speaks for itself: We show compassion to people, regardless of where they come from. We give people the chance to better themselves,” said Rogers. “I’ve had many opportunities and I’m grateful for that. Now I want to make sure those who come after me have the same opportunities. I want to be a role model to the tenants and to my fellow Board members and show everyone the positivity that comes from programs like Mercy Housing. The need keeps on growing, and it’s critical that Mercy Housing keeps on growing to meet that need.”

Rogers, who has experienced homelessness in his own life, was introduced to Mercy Housing Lakefront by a case worker thirteen years ago. An active participant in the fight for affordable housing and homeless services for many years, Rogers has campaigned throughout the Midwest and Washington, D.C., sharing his own story with local and national legislators. He credits Mercy Housing for many positive changes in his life and is excited to be able to give back to the organization.

“I’m honored to be on the Board and want the members to see how they are changing lives,” Rogers said. “Mercy Housing gave me structure. Mercy Housing gave me hope. Mercy Housing gave me strength. Most importantly, though, Mercy Housing gave me the ability to see my own faults and to make changes for the better.”